By Estrella Z. Gallardo
Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora the newly appointed Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCCARRD), announced plans, target programs, and policy directions for the council during the media conference held at El Cielito Hotel, Makati City.
Dr. Ebora on February 16, 2015 the start of his appointment emphasized the need for the council to take the lead in developing world-class tools and know-how for the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sectors. To be able to achieve this and to improve the delivery of S &T services and implementation of research and development (R&D) activities, He identified five main initiatives that would shape up his directions for the council:
100 Days Stronger and More Effective
Under a new leadership, a strategic planning workshop will be conducted which will further guide PCAARRD towards a common vision; more specific, measurable, relevant, and attainable objectives; as well as concrete and focused programs and projects for the AANR sectors, The worshop will also validate and firm-up the deliverables of the Council identified within 100days of Dr. Ebora’s tenure as the PCAARRD leader for the succeeding years.
Enhancing Alliances for Optimum Outcomes
PCAARRD recognizes that to be able to uphold its commitment to the advancement of R&D in the AANR sectors, it should seek the expertise of its partners in the region, which is composed of the 13 regional consortia, including the newest member, the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao Agriculture and Aquatic Resources research and Development Consortium (ARMMAARRDEC) For years, the the consortia has been serving PCAARRD as a platform for regional S&T planning, R&D coordination, project implementation, monitoring and evaluation, and resource sharing. Today, PCAARRD is enhancing its engagement with the consortia through increase in funding support for programs and projects, provision of non-degree training programs, and assistance in infrastructure improvement, among other initiatives.
A Food Secure Country and Globally competitive AANR Industries
With the view of attaining the status of a food secure country, PCAARRD has formulated the Industry Strategic Program (ISP), comprising of 34 ISPs across 14 geographical regions. The program provides a framework to articulate the priorities, initiatives, and underlying actions of PCAARRD where resources can be applied toward strengthening industry objectives and outcomes, The ISP also provides the R&D direction to all stakeholders working in the industry value chain.
Continuing Excellence and Quality Management
To gain the benefits of continual improvement, PCAARRD as an organization has committed to maintain, and as needed, improve or modify the system to best suit the need of the changing S&T environment. Thus its management and staff are enjoined to embrace, cooperate, and support the PCAARRD ISO 9001 QMS. The standard helps the Council achieve consistent results and continually improve its processes.
Cultivating the Richness in PCAARRD Human Resources
With capability enhancement of the PCAARRD staff as a priority by the new Executive Director, Dr. Ebora encourages its employees to pursue advanced degrees and trainings in specialized fields related to PCAARRD’s areas of concern. Moreover, to further maximize the performance of each unit that comprises PCAARRD, a function audit is currently being conducted which will assist the Management in evaluating and strengthening PCAARRD’s organizational structure and function.(PsciJourn MegaManila)
